A Backyard for All Ages

Taking an unremarkable backyard to the Dex level.

Our clients in Grafton, Massachusetts wanted to create an elegant backyard space to host large parties for friends and family, and it was critical that the design appeal to adults and children alike. After all, the kids would be using the space most often with their neighborhood friends.

The existing yard was large and nondescript which made our clients feel disconnected from guests. To combat this, a multi-level design would be used to create several entertainment subspaces defined by retaining walls, landscaping beds, and paver inlays.

The centerpiece of this backyard would be an in-ground pool, and what’s more important to kids than being able to make a big splash? It was decided that the pool needed a waterslide, but no ordinary waterslide would do! Fieldstone boulders would be used to create a mini-mountain upon which a fiberglass slide would descend. Water/fire bowls would flank the slide, and a waterfall would cascade down the rocks and into the pool.

On the ground level, a travertine patio for group seating would extend from the basement walkout. Adjacent to that space, another zone would be created where our clients could enjoy their outdoor fireplace. The upper-level pool deck would be extended to create a poolside patio upon which a pavilion would be built to shelter dining tables from the summer sun. A stone walkway and steps would connect these individual spaces, uniting them within the overall entertainment zone.

To finish this epic outdoor space, landscape lighting would be installed allowing parties to extend long into the evening hours, and after construction was complete, lush sod would be planted allowing for immediate use.

After months of planning and construction, this Dex level backyard was revealed as an entertainment paradise where both adults and children feel welcome, and neighbors feel compelled to ask “Are we invited to your next party?”